To reinvent the wheel
Example: We don't need to reinvent the wheel for this project.
Definition
"To reinvent the wheel" means to waste time and effort creating something that already exists and works well, instead of using or building upon existing solutions. It is commonly used to advise avoiding unnecessary duplication of work, as in: We don't need to reinvent the wheel for this project.
Etymology
The phrase "to reinvent the wheel" originates from the metaphor of the wheel, an ancient invention fundamental to human progress. The expression humorously suggests the futility of trying to create something as basic and well-established as the wheel again. It gained popularity in the 20th century as a way to caution against redundant efforts.
Learn to use this expression actively
"To reinvent the wheel" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
